Current Affairs - State

Mission Watershed PUNARUTTHAN, along with the Watershed Mahotsav, was launched in Nagaland with the goal of rejuvenating water bodies, restoring degraded land and promoting efficient water-harvesting systems through community participation. The initiative operates under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY), under which 14 projects have been approved and ₹140 crore sanctioned. As part of the mission’s progress, 555 watershed structures have been renovated, benefiting over 6,500 farmers. The broader objective is to strengthen water security in the Northeast, supported by 90% central assistance, while advancing climate-resilient development across the region.

Rajasthan has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first Indian state to complete 100% digitisation of its voter rolls under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) programme. This initiative ensures that all voter details are electronically maintained, mapped, and verified, enhancing accuracy and reducing manual errors. With 97% of voter mapping completed, Rajasthan leads the nation in digital electoral management. The digitisation streamlines verification, improves transparency, reduces electoral fraud, and facilitates easier access for voters. Dedicated efforts by Booth Level Officers and local staff played a key role in achieving this success, setting a benchmark for other states.

Karnataka introduced e-Swathu 2.0 as a major step toward digitising rural property records and improving service delivery across gram panchayats. The platform aims to regularise around 95 lakh rural properties by bringing them under the tax framework, which is expected to generate up to ₹2,000 crore in additional revenue for the state. It simplifies access to property documents such as e-khata Forms 11A and 11B, eliminates the need for villagers to visit panchayat offices, and provides support through dedicated helplines and Bapuji Centres. The initiative reflects Karnataka’s push for transparency, efficiency, and rural empowerment through digital governance.

Maharashtra has introduced a significant policy requiring all thermal power plants in the state to co-fire 5–7% bamboo biomass or charcoal. This initiative is part of the 2025 Bamboo Industry Policy, which aims to reduce carbon emissions, diversify the state’s energy mix, and promote sustainable alternatives to traditional fuels. Backed by substantial financial commitments, including a ₹1,534 crore plan for 2025–30 and long-term incentives worth ₹11,797 crore, the policy supports the development of bamboo markets and rural employment. Bamboo, known for its rapid growth and carbon absorption capabilities, is being positioned as a key driver of green energy transition and decarbonisation efforts.

Tamil Nadu has expanded its GI portfolio to 74 by securing GI tags for five culturally significant products—Woraiyur cotton sari, Kavindapadi jaggery powder, Namakkal soapstone cookware, Thooyamalli rice, and Ambasamudram wooden toys. Each of these products reflects the state’s deep-rooted heritage across textiles, agriculture, traditional crafts, and artisanal skills. GI recognition plays a crucial role in protecting unique regional identities, enhancing market value, and supporting rural livelihoods. By obtaining these tags, Tamil Nadu strengthens its position as one of India’s leading states in preserving traditional knowledge, promoting cultural diversity, and empowering artisan and farmer communities through legal and economic recognition.